[The Other Harry]

What would you recommend to someone who has never fired a weapon, but needs to eliminate a badger?

You want a shotgun. They aren't hard to use. The dealer can show you how, and you can practice a few times first.

I'd say get yourself a Mossberg 500 with an 18 1/2" barrel. They aren't too expensive, and they can be used for other things later on. They make for a good hall gun. You might find you need one someday.

You do *not* need heavy loads. Those are for shooting ducks. Light loads will be just fine. The dealer can advise you.

[berkeleybeej]

You want a shotgun. They aren't hard to use. The dealer can show you how, and you can practice a few times first.

I'd say get yourself a Mossberg 500 with an 18 1/2" barrel. They aren't too expensive, and they can be used for other things later on. They make for a good hall gun. You might find you need one someday.

Thank you for your advice. I really appreciate it. By the way - what is the effective range of the shotgun you recommended? I am really asking how close do I have to get to the badger?